Last Updated on 8 months ago by Charbel Coorey

Mitchell Starc is the first member of Australia’s fast-bowling “big three” to finish up from a format, announcing his retirement from T20 Internationals. The 35-year-old made the call to prolong his Test and ODI career.

The timing of the call can be an eyebrow raiser for some, but Starc confirmed he made the decision so Australia can prepare accordingly for next year’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Mitchell Starc on retiring from T20 Internationals: Test cricket my biggest priority

In a statement, Starc spoke fondly of the 2021 T20 World Cup triumph, where the men’s team won their first title in the shortest format. He also reiterated his love for Test cricket and goal of playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” Starc said, as quoted by cricket.com.au.

“I have loved every minute of every T20 game I have played for Australia, particularly the 2021 World Cup, not just because we won but the incredible group and the fun along the way.

“Looking ahead to an away Indian Test tour, the Ashes and an ODI World Cup in 2027, I feel this is my best way forward to remain fresh, fit and at my best for those campaigns.

“It also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament.”

Starc finishes with 79 wickets in 65 matches, second only to Adam Zampa in terms of wickets for Australia in T20Is.

“Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career for Australia,” said selection chief George Bailey.

“He was an integral member of the 2021 World Cup winning side and, as across all his cricket, had a great skill for blowing games open with his wicket taking ability.

“We will acknowledge and celebrate his T20 career at the right time, but pleasingly he remains focused on continuing to play Test and ODI cricket for a long as possible.”

How will Australia lineup in the T20I series in New Zealand?

Australia’s next assignment is three T20Is in New Zealand. Pat Cummins is ruled out due to a lumbar bone stress issue in his back. Nathan Ellis will also miss the series due to paternity leave, while Spencer Johnson and Lance Morris are also injured.

The likes of Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett and Sean Abbott may form a core part of the attack that tours New Zealand. The three-match series begins on October 1.

Australia’s squad: Mitch Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitch Owen, Matt Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa